Prof Merryll Vorster told the court that in her opinion, Maarohanye had “no anti-social behaviour tendencies”.

“He is mildly depressed... has no ongoing behaviour of substance abuse, but admitted that he regularly took ecstasy.”

Vosloo was called by Maarohanye to compile a pre-sentencing report.

On October 16, the court found Maarohanye and his co-accused Themba Tshabalala guilty on four counts of murder and two of attempted murder, of using drugs, racing on a public road, and driving under the influence of drugs.

They were drag-racing in Protea North on March 8, 2010, when they crashed into a group of schoolboys, killing Prince Mohube, Mlungisi Cwayi, Andile Mthombeni, and Phomello Masemola, and leaving Frank Mlambo and Fumani Mushwana permanently brain damaged.

State prosecutor Raymond Mathenjwa said that during the trial Maarohanye had denied ever taking drugs.

“So he lied saying he never takes drugs?” Mathenjwa asked Vorster.

She responded: “He admitted to taking ecstasy.”

Vorster told the court Maarohanye had no dependency on drugs.

The Soweto courtroom was packed on Wednesday, and many people had to stand in the public gallery. Over 10 police and metro police officers were seen standing at the back of the court.

Family of the schoolchildren killed and injured in the crash sat in the first three rows in court.

Family members wore white, golf T-shirts carrying the names of the children involved in the crash.

Maarohanye and Tshabalala's family and friends were also in court.

The two were denied bail after judgment was handed down.

Maarohanye has since applied to the High Court in Johannesburg for bail, but this was denied.

When sentencing procedures continue, Rudi Krause, for Maarohanye, is expected to call a social worker as a witness. - Sapa

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